The Chinese government intended for its capital to compete with world commercial centers and planned for a new Beijing CBD at the outset of the new millennium, with the goal of attracting new global enterprises. Civic leaders commissioned a plan for a four-square kilometer industrial site east of Tiananmen Square at the intersection of the Third Ring Road and Jianguomen Outer Avenue, an intersection known as the ‘Golden Cross.’ One objective was to protect the city’s historic core from demolition or other compromise by locating the new District away from it.

Drawing from traditional Chinese city planning, the master plan divides the site into four distinct districts, each centered around a prominent public park. Each of these parks is connected to the others by four additional linear parks, forming an overall open space network. The park network contains a ‘necklace’ of premier cultural institutions. The plan draws from historic organizing principles that contribute to Beijing’s distinct identity: lakes linked by canals; a strong plan geometry with axial views; large ‘super-block’ development areas with through-block walking streets (hutongs); distinct gateway entrances; sun access that helps to provide heat for housing units during cold weather; and thematic open space. Respectful of its urban context, the plan also establishes a unique skyline for the CBD while fully integrating it with its surroundings. Since 2001, Beijing’s CBD has emerged as China’s primary global business address, drawing more than 117 Fortune 500 businesses in the financial, media, information technology, and consulting service industries.